The Venetian theme included the specification of exotic materials and a water theme — Venice was the most important port in Renaissance Europe, receiving imports from Asia and Africa.
The initial step was to start with an 8' W by 10' H wall and create bold cabinets that vertically aligned with the pilastered mirror sections and ceiling beams.
On the mirrored wall, rope pilasters and a Venetian-Gothic-inspired arched valence were created to divide the massive mirrored wall symmetrically and classically.
For continuity, the rope motif is also used to divide the mirror into 3 symmetrical panels. This symmetrical alignment — from floor to ceiling — provides structure, rhythm, and visual solace.
The center bay base cabinet features large rope columns, reflecting a more ornate or Baroque styling. It is flanked by symmetrical banks of drawers to each side.
The rope detail on the center bay base cabinet aligns with the rope detail of the mirrored panels. Close attention is paid to the integration — shared relationships — of all the vertical members.
The above CAD rendering reflects the center bay with doors and side bays with drawers of the main vanity with the columns, mirrors, and ceiling panels all aligning for classical symmetry.
The picture to the right is a close up CAD rendering of the cabinetry detail. The large columns feature a rope motif for a bold, weighted look. An acanthus onlay adds classical detail above the rope column.
The center bay cabinet doors are detailed with a Running Coin motif inside the panel. The complementary drawers reflect a formal decor with a petite panel moulding — adding impact and depth.
Products Used
CRV5576 Acanthus Onlay
CRV5500 Acanthus Capital
CLM6210H Rope Column
MLD5800 Rope Moulding
MLD5616 Reeded Panel Mould
CRV5530 Plynth
MLD6004 Running Coin Panel Mould
The top right CAD rendering provides a section of the ceiling beams. The water-themed Vitruvian Wave motif panel mould complements the Fluted crown moulding to createan elegant and formal paneled ceiling as shown in the above photograph.
Products Used for Ceiling Beams: MLD5860 Fluted Crown Moulding and MLD5952 Vitruvian Wave Panel Mould
David Pearson is a 25-year veteran Designer and recently completed his Masters Degree in Classical Architecture at Georgia Tech. He is a member of the Institute of Classical Architecture and has traveled and studied extensively abroad.
Pearson's expertise includes Classically Inspired Designs for both interior and exterior projects.
In this picture, Pearson is in his studio at the American Academy in Rome, where he was recently in residence as a visiting scholar and artist.
On the left side of this photo, you can view one of Pearson's Classically Inspired watercolor renderings.